What Can A Golf Exercise Program Do For Your Golf Game?

Posted on March 16th, 2010 by admin

Athletic conditioning is a relatively new idea to many golfers, since caddies and golf carts have always been around to help virtually anyone make it around the course, no matter what shape they were in. Until recently, most golfers didn’t know much about what exercises could be included along side their swing training or putting practice to improve their overall game. But ‘the modern golfer’ is leaner, stronger, and fitter than ever before…

Many golfers, however, seem to remain skeptical. Some might have visions of gyms full of big, intimidating guys they’d rather not train with. Some simply don’t know where to start, or whether all the effort they’d put in would be worth it. It hasn’t helped that several myths have existed for years about the alleged downsides of physical conditioning or strength training, and the impact these might have on the smooth, easy swing most golfers desire. Let’s take a look at 3 of these myths, and the reality hiding behind them as well.

1. If I lift weights, I’ll get too ‘bulky’ and ruin my swing

An exercise program specific to golf and golfers will not hinder your swing mechanics, it will enhance them! There are sport-specific programs for virtually any sport you can think of; the one thing they have in common is their purpose. That is, to strengthen and condition the muscles and muscle groups most used in that game. Makes sense, right?

A typical golf conditioning program will use moderate weight, with medium (12-15) repetitions, it will be relatively brief and it won’t include the massive caloric intake required to build mass. At least, it shouldn’t! Of course, some exercises won’t involve weights at all, they’ll just be…well, exercises. This type of program is designed to improve your strength and endurance while golfing, nothing more. You might burn some calories and end up looking better in a t-shirt, but you will not be building ‘bulky’ muscle.

2. I’d be sacrificing flexibility for strength if I lift weights

In fact, the opposite is true! Untrained muscles are also tight muscles. Through resistance training you’ll increase blood flow, work your limbs through a range of motion that imitates those you’ll use in your golf game, and strengthen your joints’ tendons and ligaments. In conjunction with a stretching program, strength training will improve flexibility, not hinder it.

3. Weight training will cause me to lose the feel in my golf game

Wrong again! By strengthening the muscles specific to playing golf, you will have better control of your body’s motions. A sport-specific program trains your body for better physical performance in your golf game, as mentioned earlier. When you improve functional strength, you have more control and balance, which will improve your feel. Strength training improves body awareness, muscular control, and coordination. These are all key elements for the smooth, flowing golf swing you’re after.

Golf conditioning programs can be incorporated into your training whether you’re in your teens or your 80’s. It is never too late to start. Search out a fitness professional or golf conditioning specialist to design a golf specific program and you will play better than you ever imagined! Start now on your golf conditioning program!

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